India and Pakistan have always had a fierce rivalry in sports such as cricket, hockey, kabaddi, and many others. However, now this rivalry will extend to the esports arena as two major companies have collaborated to bring an India-Pakistan faceoff in the CS2 landscape.
Esports enthusiasts in South Asia have a thrilling event to look forward to as BLAST, the prominent esports entertainment company, and NODWIN Gaming, the leading esports and gaming media company in the region, join forces to launch a groundbreaking Counter-Strike (CS2) tournament named 'The Draft.'
This collaboration aims to provide teams from India and Pakistan with the extraordinary opportunity to compete with tier-one players on the global stage.
The Origin of The Draft
At the heart of this collaboration lies a shared vision between BLAST and NODWIN Gaming. Both entities recognize the need to propel emerging esports markets into the global limelight. 'The Draft' stands as a testament to their commitment, offering a platform for local talents to showcase their skills on an international scale.
Tournament Structure
'The Draft' kicks off with online qualifier tournaments scheduled for late January, attracting 64 teams from each nation.
What makes this tournament even more enticing is its impressive $50,000 prize pool, signaling a significant investment in the growth of esports in the region.
Team Participation
The participating teams will undergo a rigorous selection process, ensuring the inclusion of top-tier talents.
This not only offers local teams the chance to compete against global professionals but also positions them as contenders for a spot in the Pakistan and India online group stages.
Each group will accommodate 6 teams, intensifying the competition.
Road to Super Six LAN Event
Securing a spot in the Pakistan and India online group stages is the first step for teams aspiring to reach the Super Six LAN event in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
This prestigious event, scheduled for February, will host the top 3 teams from each group stage.
What sets this apart is the unique opportunity for teams to be paired with Counter-Strike legends through a special draft-inspired selection process.
Special Draft-Inspired Selection Process
In a bid to enrich the learning experience for local talents, each team participating in 'The Draft' will be paired with a Counter-Strike legend.
This process not only enhances the overall competitive atmosphere but also facilitates a valuable exchange of knowledge between emerging players and seasoned professionals.
In Summary:
Jan 2023: Mass Online Qualifiers: 64 teams from each country compete for group stages only 6-6 to advance (Total 12).
Feb 2023: Group Stage In India/Pakistan: These 6-6 teams will fight for the top 3 spots from each regional group to qualify for the Malaysia finale.
Feb 2023: Super Six LAN Finale In Malaysia: The finale comprises 3 teams (Total 6 - Supersix) from each India and Pakistan group with legends as captains!
Significance for Emerging Esports Markets
Faye Marlborough, Brand Director for BLAST, emphasizes the pivotal role of global exposure in the long-term growth of emerging esports markets.
'The Draft' not only serves as a pathway for aspiring players but also promises an enthralling experience for global and local fans alike.
Faye Marlborough expresses,
"Providing emerging esports and gaming markets with opportunities to play on a global stage is key to their long-term growth."
Akshat Rathee, Co-Founder and Managing Director of NODWIN Gaming, adds,
"The Draft symbolizes a tribute to skill, strategy, and the indomitable spirit of esports."
Excitement for Global and Local Fans
'The Draft' stands as a monumental event in the esports landscape, marking a significant leap for South Asian teams onto the global stage.
This tournament not only provides a platform for local talents but also contributes to the overall growth and recognition of esports in the region.
The fusion of local and global esports talents in 'The Draft' sets the stage for an electrifying tournament.
The finals will broadcast across 150+ countries in 28 languages - elevating South Asian gaming talent before worldwide eyeballs.
FAQs
Q1: How can teams from India and Pakistan participate in 'The Draft'?
Q2: What is the prize pool for 'The Draft' tournament?
Q3: When and where will the Super Six LAN event take place?